Defence Minister Khawaja Asif warns of ‘open war’ with Afghanistan if peace talks fail in Turkiye
Afghan Taliban fighters patrol near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border in Spin Boldak, Kandahar Province, following exchanges of fire between Pakistani and Afghan forces in Afghanistan on October 15. Photo: Reuters
The second round of talks between Pakistani and Afghanistan has concluded in Türkiye, with discussions expected to continue for another two days.
The dialogue, seen as crucial given recent tensions between Islamabad and Kabul, was facilitated by the Turkish government.
According to sources, Pakistan’s delegation comprised seven members, including representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and security agencies. The Afghan Taliban delegation included six officials.
During the talks, Pakistan presented its “clear and firm stance” on the threat posed by the terrorist group Fitna al Khwarij and other terrorist organisations operating in the region, sources added. The discussions focused on enhancing security coordination, improving border cooperation, and formulating a joint strategy to promote peace and stability in the region.
Sources familiar with the matter said the aim of the negotiations is to establish a consensus on mechanisms that would help address cross-border security challenges and prevent terrorist activity. Further deliberations are expected to take place over the next two days as both sides seek common ground on key security issues.
Asif warns of ‘open war’ with Afghanistan if peace talks fail
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said on Saturday he believes Afghanistan wants peace but that failure to reach an agreement during talks in Istanbul would mean “open war,” days after both sides agreed to a ceasefire following deadly border clashes.
He said there had been no incidents in the four to five days since it was agreed, and both sides were complying with the truce.
“We have the option, if no agreement takes place, we have an open war with them,” he said in televised remarks from Pakistan. “But I saw that they want peace.”
